UK Navy's Fleet Solid Support Ships programme completes key design milestone ahead of 2025 construction.

According to a PR published by Navantia on October 21, 2024, the Fleet Solid Support (FSS) Ships programme for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary has achieved a major milestone with the successful completion of its Preliminary Design Review (PDR). This marks the first significant achievement in the development of these critical support vessels.
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A model of the future Fleet Support Ship at the defense exhibition DSEI 2023, United Kingdom. (Picture source: Navy Recognition)

The PDR involved close collaboration between the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD), Navantia UK, the programme’s prime contractor, and BMT, which led the functional design phase. This accomplishment confirms the maturity and reliability of the design, enabling the programme to move into its next phase of detailed design, with construction expected to begin in 2025.

The success of the PDR is the result of coordinated efforts across multiple teams, including Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S), Navantia UK, and BMT. Navantia UK provided programme management, ensuring the seamless integration of various elements such as scheduling, procurement, and production engineering. A spokesperson from the MOD highlighted the significance of this milestone, noting the programme’s adherence to schedule and its importance in delivering capable ships to the Royal Fleet Auxiliary.

BMT has introduced a forward-looking design that incorporates energy-saving systems, emissions-reducing technologies, and considerations for future fuels, aligning with the UK’s carbon reduction targets.

FSS

The Fleet Solid Support (FSS) Ship Programme is a key initiative by the UK Ministry of Defence to modernize the Royal Fleet Auxiliary's capability for logistical support. It aims to deliver three large replenishment vessels that will supply the Royal Navy with essential dry stores, including munitions, food, and spare parts, while on operations globally.

In 2023, Team Resolute—a consortium led by Navantia UK with partners Harland & Wolff and BMT—was awarded a £1.6 billion contract to design and build the FSS ships. These vessels are critical to supporting the Royal Navy's carrier strike groups, including its new Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers. Construction will take place at Harland & Wolff's shipyards in Belfast and Appledore, with additional modules being built in Spain.

The ships will displace around 39,000 tonnes, and their design includes three replenishment rigs and space for helicopters, such as the Merlin and Chinook. The first vessel's construction is scheduled to begin in 2025, with all three expected to be in service by 2032.